On 8 October Hurricane Iris reached Guatemalan
territory, after causing major destruction and loss of life in Belize.
As it struck the mainland its destructive force diminished considerably,
but the damages caused to the South of Petén department, specifically in
the municipalities of Poptún, San Luis and Sayaxche, were disastrous. Hurricane
Iris seriously damaged houses, communal infrastructure and crops as well
as cutting the electric power, radio and telephone services. The
hospital in Poptún lost parts of its roof, although it was able to continue
functioning.

The damage caused by Hurricane Iris was
largely due to the devastating winds and the storm surge. The rainfall
was only 3-4 inches but caused flooding in localized areas. In spite of
the hurricane intensity, the loss of life was low - 5 persons, while less
than 100 were injured. It is estimated that approximately 27,500 persons
were directly affected and will be at risk for adverse health conditions
in Peten.

ACT member, LWF/DWS Petén office, is
proposing to support the affected population in the Petén region of Guatemala,
providing:

Food supplies

Medicines

Shelter

Seeds

Project
Completion Date:15 April 2002

Summary of Appeal Targets, Pledges/Contributions
Received and Balance Requested

Please also inform the Finance Officer
Jessie Kgoroeadira (direct tel. +4122/791.60.38, e-mail address jkg@act-intl.org)
of all pledges/contributions and transfers, including funds sent direct
to the implementers, now that the Pledge Form is no longer attached to
the Appeal.

We would appreciate being informed of
any intent to submit applications for EU, USAID and/or other back donor
funding and the subsequent results. We thank you in advance for your kind
cooperation.